Discover the history of Rotorua's Geothermal eco-system, feel invigorated by the healing waters, relax and unwind in Rotorua's lakes and forest and experience the best of manaakitanga with a traditional Maori culture experience.

Mountain Bike in Rotorua

Rotorua is home to one of the oldest mountain bike networks in the country, with around 145km of continually evolving trails in the stunning Whakarewarewa Forest (“The Redwoods”).

Just five minutes from downtown Rotorua, it’s a perfect playground no matter what your skillset. The trails cater for all levels of ability and fitness ranging from the family friendly Big Kids Loop, to grade 2 (beginner) trails through to grade 6 (expert).

With the newly developed Gravity Park at Skyline Rotorua, which plays host to the Crankworx World Tour, Rotorua continues to deliver on being the adventure capital of the North Island and the playground for both families and thrill-seekers, alike.

Looking to hit the Rotorua trails?

First time for Rotorua mountain biking? The best place to head on your first visit is the Waipa cark park on Waipa State Mill Road, which is accessible from State Highway 5, south of Rotorua. With state-of-the-art toilets and shower, as well as bike cleaning facilities you’ll have all you need in one place. If you need to hire a bike, you'll find Planet Bike a little further down on Waipa Bypass Road who will offer bike hire, great advice and even accompanied multi-day tours.

Once you’re ready to go, you have a few options; one is to head across the bridge at the back of the car park into the network of trails. There is an information sign as you enter, and other signs around the forest detailing the trails.

The first trails you’ll find are the kids loop, and the popular Tahi. Check out the sign and you can make a decision that suits you. Most bike shops around town will sell paper or cloth versions of the Wkakarewarewa trail map, so you can have one on you at all times. A wise choice!

If you’re keen to venture further, Helibike Rotorua can take you on a ride to remember! Enjoy the exhilaration and adrenalin of a scenic helicopter flight to the world famous Moerangi trail or the stunning Timber Trail, part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail.

Te Ara Ahi part of The New Zealand Cycle Trail Network and is a 2 day, 48 km cycle adventure passing through a thermal wonderland of steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and spectacular geysers. The trail starts from the Rotorua i-site and Visitor Centre and ends at Waikite Valley Thermal Pools.

Ride Rotorua has everything you need to know about riding some of the world's best trails, including where to go, where to stay, what to eat, where to hire a bike an how to ride one better. Read riders' comments and check out the ratings on each of the trails.